Nerd and Healthnut: Homemade Beauty Products

As promised, the beauty products I use on a daily basis. Enjoy!

homemade deodorant

This recipe is easy to make, inexpensive and works just as good (or better than) commercial brands and it doesn't stain your clothes! I have been using this for a couple of years. It works great! Just remember, this is deodorant, not antiperspirant.

1/3 cup coconut oil (solid state)
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch
essential oils (optional)

Mix the baking soda and arrowroot powder in a glass bowl.
Add the coconut oil (do not warm or melt it) and use a fork or pastry blender to thoroughly blend it into the dry ingredients.
Add 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oils and blend completely. (this step is optional)
Add more coconut oil or arrowroot powder/baking soda if needed until the texture is about the same consistency as commercial deodorant.
Scoop the mixture into a small jar or old deodorant container and store at room temperature.(Refrigeration may be required during summer months and warmer weather because the coconut oil will melt at 76 degrees.)
To apply, use your fingers to scoop out a pea-size amount of the deodorant and massage it into your armpits daily or as needed, or swipe it on if you used an old deodorant container. Allow a minute or two for the deodorant to set before getting dressed.

eye make-up remover

Witch Hazel, alcohol-free

Olive oil

Mix equal parts of witch hazel and olive oil in a plastic squeeze bottle. For use: Shake well, then squeeze on cotton ball and wipe over eye.

shampoo/conditioner

I love the "no-poo" method of cleansing my hair. You can find instructions here.

I have used the no-poo method for a couple months now. I have noticed that my hair is growing faster and there is a lot less breakage and split ends. Wahoo! This method may not be for every hair type, but I definitely recommend trying it out for a week or two to see if you notice an improvement.

favorite store-bought beauty products

Body and face wash: Dr. Bronner's liquid soap
Lotion: I just use plain coconut oil on dry areas
Facial Mask: Queen Helene's Mint Julep Mask
Foundation: Bare Escenutals

You're probably wondering if these recipes will really work. Well, these work great for me, and I've gone through a lot of natural, homemade recipes. Besides discovering recipes that work very well, I've found a few that don't...